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Contributed - Castlegar News

posted Feb 7, 2013 at 1:00 PM

The Van Django Quartet - Sunday, Feb. 24 at the Kootenay Gallery.

— image credit: Submitted

On Sunday, February 24 the Kootenay Gallery presents the Van Django Quartet as part of the TD Bank Sunday Concert Series. Van Django is an acoustic string ensemble made up of four of Canada's most talented and eclectic musicians; violinist Cameron Wilson, guitarist Budge Schachte, guitarist/cellist Finn Manniche and bassist Brent Gubbels.

Van Django's music is punchy, driving and rhythmically inventive, combining a wealth of musical influences while maintaining their roots in the gypsy jazz made famous by the 1930's Quintet of the Hot Club of France.

Since the group's formation in 1998, they have toured extensively in Canada as well as international forays to the USA and Europe.

The group has had repeat performances at Djangofest Northwest (DFNW) in 2008-2010 sharing the stage with gypsy jazz luminaries such as the John Jorgenson Quintet, the legendary gypsy jazz guitarist Romane and his group and the Marc Atkinson Trio.

Perhaps Nick Lehr, director of Djangofest Northwest, summed it up best describing Van Django when he said:

"In an increasingly crowded niche, Van Django is a standout act. With a clever mix of contemporary standards, classical ditties, rock homages and solid originals they effortlessly whip the audience into a joyful frenzy. Attending a Van Django concert is the most fun you can have sitting down with your clothes on."

This concert will take place at 1:30 pm Sunday, February 24 at the Kootenay Gallery located adjacent to the Doukhobor Discovery Centre on Heritage Way across from the Castlegar Airport. Tickets are sold at the door for $15 general admission and $12 for Kootenay Gallery members. For more information call 250-365-3337 or visit www.kootenaygallery@telus.net

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